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15th January 2015

PRESS RELEASE

CARGO HANDLING ACTIVITY AT KARACHI PORT INCREASES BY 4.75% DURING FIRST SIX MONTHS OF FINANCIAL YEAR 2014-15

The financial year 2014-15 has remained good for the Karachi Port as cargo handling activities, during the six months period “1st July – 31st December’ 2014”, has remained far better than it was in the corresponding period of last financial year 2013-14. Current financial year’s handling of Dry Cargo has registered a growth of 4.79% through handling 14.982 million tonnes whereas it remained at 14.297 million tonnes during the corresponding period (July – December) of last financial year. Similar performance is shown by the liquid bulk cargo which has also registered a growth of 4.66% by handling of 6.670 million tonnes whereas it remained at 6.373 million tonnes during the corresponding period last year. The overall impact was such that total cargo handled by KPT has recorded a growth of 4.75% by handling of 21.652 million tonnes in this financial year at the end of December 2014 whereas the same remained at 20.670 million tonnes during corresponding period last year (July – December 2013).

Container handling has also gained momentum at Karachi Port as the cumulative handling of the total containers at the end of December, this financial year, was 0.833 million TEUs whereas it closed during corresponding period last year at 0.786 million TEUs; hence registered a growth of 6.05%. The import and export breakup shows that the port handled 0.429 million TEUs of container import and 0.404 million TEUs of container export this financial year at the end of December 2014 whereas these remained at 0.405 million TEUs and 0.381 million TEUs respectively during the corresponding period of last year ended (July – December 2013).

The ship handling at KPT has also shown good performance overall. The container ship handling this year at the end of first six months of financial year 2014-15 closed at 385 container ships, 106 bulk cargo ships, 114 general cargo ships and 237 oil tankers. During the corresponding period last year these were 418 container ships, 99 bulk cargo ships, 107 general cargo ships and 204 oil tankers. Although handling of less container vessels have taken place but KPT has handled more container freight this year in comparison from the corresponding period last year and it shows that large/bigger sized container ships are calling Karachi Port with more cargo on-board. Hence, the overall performance of ship handling saw the upward trend.

13th January 2015

PRESS RELEASE

A HIGH PROFILE DELEGATION OF NATIONAL DEFENCE UNIVERSITY VISITED KARACHI PORT

A high profile delegation of National Defence University, related to National Security and War Course 2014-15, arrived at Karachi Port for a briefing about port activities and functions as part of their course. The delegation was given a complete briefing on management, administrative areas, functions and projects of KPT underway. The Chairman KPT Vice Admiral (Retd.) Shafqat Jawed HI (M) informed the delegates about the role KPT plays in trade and commerce of the nation at KPT Head Office on Tuesday, the 13th January 2015. Being the premier port, Karachi Port has dredgers, flotilla crafts and complete infrastructure to facilitate port users. Recently, the port is dredged further to handle even 13 meters draught vessels said the Chairman KPT while briefing the delegation. The Chairman informed the delegation further that Karachi Port will soon become capable of handling bigger post PANAMAX mother vessels by the end of this year when the first phase of deep water container port attains completion and becomes fully operational.

Various projects came under discussion with respect to their utility for the port to have such capital intensive projects. The Chairman KPT also briefed the delegates on the new deep water container port which is scheduled to become functional by the end of this year. The Chairman KPT informed the delegation that the new port will open new avenues for trade and commerce for Pakistan and pave way for the port to become transhipment hub of the region. The Chairman KPT termed the decision of developing deep water container port as timely as the Karachi Port is strategically located well set to cash on the change that has taken place due to shift over of world economy towards Asia. The session concluded with the exchange of crests between Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed HI (M) and leader of the delegation Rear Admiral Moazzam Ilyas SI (M).

17thSeptember 2014

PRESS RELEASE

US AMBASSADOR RICHARD OLSON CALLED ON CHAIRMAN KPT VICE ADMIRAL SHAFQAT JAWED AT KPT HEAD OFFICE

A high level delegation led by US Ambassador Mr Richard Olson and the new Consul General Mr Bian Heagh called on Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed at KPT Head Office today to discuss areas and issues of mutual interest. In a brief presentation given to the delegation, the Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed informed the Ambassador about the functioning of port and the various mega projects that the port has undertaken to improve the existing capacity. At the same time future projects and prospects were discussed along with avenues of mutual interest. The US side was apprised about the rich heritage and gradual transformation of Karachi Port into a modern and competitive hub of national trade. Various segments of port capacity and connectivity also came under discussion.

The US Ambassador appreciated the capacity building programmes and the progress on impending deep water container port which will enable the port to handle post PANAMAX mother vessels. Projects like cable stay bridge that will provide connectivity of port with cargo village, northern bypass, and Lyari Express Way; and would make the port capable of handling cargo of national as well as transit trade, were also discussed.

Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed presented KPT Souvenir to the US Ambassador, His Excellency Mr Richard Olson which concluded the proceedings of the day.

Earlier, the Chairman Vice Admiral Shafqat was briefed about the scope of work of Morris Pier which included 55 piles, 72 precast slabs, 70.68m X 9.5m size Deck Slab, 11 pile caps and 2 staircases. Moreover, he was informed about the inclusion of Sarang Office, Waiting Room, Guard Room and Pump Room at Morris Pier and also about the construction of new staircase on the Warping Jetty due to operational reasons which will also be used by KPT officers and staff workers for approaching Manora.

The Morris Pier, more famously known as the Workshop Pier, at Manora which had outlived its useful life, is reconstructed by KPT and is inaugurated today byChairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawedduring a brief ceremony which is attended by management officials of the Karachi Port.

While speaking on the occasion, the Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed termed the timely reconstruction of Morris Pier as step towards achieving high goals envisioned by Karachi Port and Ministry of Ports and Shipping which is in line with the overall government policies for growth and materializing trade expansions. Reflecting on importance of the Morris pier, the Chairman outlined that it remain in use for the personnel working in Manora Workshop as well as for berthing crafts for maintenance and repairs. He said that the pier was initially constructed 90 years ago and was requiring reconstruction as it has outlived its useful life and was beyond economic repairs. He appreciated the efforts of Civil Works & Estate Division of KPT for getting the pier reconstructed within the timeline. He commended the efforts and said that we work in KPT as a team and success is bound to follow when work and assignments are delivered in time by a motivated team.

Earlier, the Chairman Vice Admiral Shafqat was briefed about the scope of work of Morris Pier which included 55 piles, 72 precast slabs, 70.68m X 9.5m size Deck Slab, 11 pile caps and 2 staircases. Moreover, he was informed about the inclusion of Sarang Office, Waiting Room, Guard Room and Pump Room at Morris Pier and also about the construction of new staircase on the Warping Jetty due to operational reasons which will also be used by KPT officers and staff workers for approaching Manora.

The Independence Day proceedings in KPT Head Office took place with great fervour. The proceedings started with beguile blowing for two minutes, from 8:58 – 9:00 am, followed by flag hoisting by the, chief guest, Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed.

The Chairman Admiral Shafqat Jawed took the guard of honour from neatly dressed battalions of Port Fire Service, Port Security Force, Port Civil Defence, KPT Traffic Department, Marine Apprentices (A&B) and Karachi Sea Scouts. President’s order of the day was read out on the occasion.

Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed while speaking on the occasion specifically stressed on the need to strengthen our folds and to complete the assigned tasks diligently which ultimately reflects on the overall performance of the port. He prayed for the development of Pakistan in every field as well as for the Karachi Port to further strengthen the national economy in years to come.

The Chairman KPT distributed prizes to the best and runners up “Employee for the Year 2013” on the occasion to Mr Ibrahim Khan (Engineering Division), Mr Gulzar Ali (Finance Division), Mr Rizwan Ahmed (Operations Division), Syed Munawar Hussain (Planning & Development Division), Mr Babu (Administration Division) and Mr Sardar Ali (Civil Works & Estate Division); which concluded the proceedings of the day.

4th July 2014

PRESS RELEASE

REMARKABLKE PORT HANDLING ACTIVITIES AT KARACHI PORT

ENDING FINANCIAL YEAR (2013 – 14)

In pursuance to the favourable business oriented policies of government, the cargo / container handling of Karachi Port has shown remarkable increase in container handling and all categories of cargo (i.e. break bulk, dry bulk and liquid bulk) at the end of FY (2013 – 14). Comparatively, the port registered a growth of 6.44% and handled 41.350 million tonnes of cargo at the end of FY (2013 – 14), as compared to 38.850 million tonnes in FY (2012 – 13). Breakup of the type of cargo indicates handling of 28.242 million tonnes dry cargo up against 26.829 million tonnes last year by 5.27%. On the liquid side, a total of 13.108 million tonnes liquid bulk cargo was handled as against 12.021 million tonnes the previous FY (2012 – 13); rising by 9.04%.

A similar upward trend is also seen in container handling at Karachi Port. The port handled 1.591 million TEUs at the end of FY (2013 – 14), whereas it remained at 1.522 million TEUs in previous FY (2012 – 13); hence registered an observant growth of 4.55%.

The ship handling has also increased by 77 ships at the close of ending FY (2013 – 14) while handling 1673 ships which remained at 1596 the previous year.

KPT has focussed on measures to adapt itself with the demands of the trade. A constant endeavour continues to frame the policies and amend regulations to make user friendly and growth oriented. A performance of this magnitude reflects on trade oriented friendly policies of present government and efforts of the honourable Minister Mr Kamran Michael. It also augurs well that port enjoys good relations with its clientele under the leadership of Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed. It is in this continuum that the port is all set to propel towards achieving milestones, in future as well.

24TH MAY 2014

PRESS RELEASE

MINISTER FOR PORTS AND SHIPPING SENATOR KAMRAN MICHAEL ALONG WITH CHAIRMAN KPT VICE ADMIRAL SHAFQAT JAWED INAUGURATES THE MANGROVE SAPLINGS PLANTATION ACTIVITY IN CONNECTION WITH THE FALLING WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY

Students of various schools performed the plantation activity at a local hotel

The federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael performed the mangrove saplings plantation to inaugurate the mangrove plantation activity initiated by Karachi Port Trust to improve the marine ecosystem. He was accompanied by Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed, General Managers of KPT and other senior officials besides the school children.

The Minister Kamran Michael, while speaking on the occasion as chief guest, highlighted the importance of having mangroves plantation on coastline and announced that KPT will undertake the plantation of around 100,000 mangrove saplings in the near future. He said that the mangroves are protection against disasters like Tsunamis and cyclones that can hit any coastline in the world we live in. He further said that mangroves also provide breeding and shelter points to various marine species. The complex breathing roots above the surface makes network of roots where trapped sediments provides productive habitat to fish, shrimps, crabs, oysters and other animals living directly or indirectly on the nutrients from fallen mangrove leaves, he added.

Senator Kamran Michael while notifying the importance of mangroves said in a painful tone that pollutants falling in our seawaters are gradually eating up and depleting these mangroves assets of Pakistan. He said that over the last 50 years the mangrove ecosystem has degraded a lot and that 99% of the forests found in Indus Delta are facing pressures of acute shortage of fresh water and silt supplies, marine pollution and overharvesting of fish; and the remaining 1% found in three pockets of Balochistan coast are also exposed to similar threats though the intensity is on the lower side. He said that the eight species of mangroves found along the Pakistan coast few decades back have come down to four today. Only one of these species is dominant while others have become rare or extinct and that only 15% of mangroves in the Indus Delta are considered healthy, he added.

Earlier, the Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed informed that the marine pollution we have in our seawaters is a result of industrial chemical waste which is falling in seawaters without any treatment. He informed the audience that ingress of 400 million gallons per day of municipal and industrial waste from Karachi city is falling in seawaters through six storm drains; including Lyari River and Nehr-e-Khayyam and 13 other small outfalls serving the population, which comes to backwaters and Karachi Port. Hence we are at the receiving end, he added. He said that the port is doing its best to clean the garbage flowing inside the channel but cleaning the whole sea is not possible for the port to do alone. It is high time that rules and regulations are strictly forced against the industrial sector and treatment plants as per requirement be speedily built to stop the garbage from falling in seawaters as such chemicals increases the presence of harmful metals and substances like mercury, nickel, tin, sulphur, etc., he added.

Later, the students, along with the Minister, were taken near the mangrove forests for saplings plantation which concluded the proceedings of the day.

The Senator Kamran Michael commended the role played by the APSA towards increasing Pakistani trade activities. He asked the delegation to attract more shipping lines towards the Pakistani ports where more facilities are available to the port users. He stressed on having partnership to increase the trade activities of Pakistan, especially the exports sector which earns revenues for the national exchequer and that it also reflects on trade balances side of the balance sheet. While reflecting on government’s motives, Senator Kamran Michael said that we believe in trade not aid and that our ports are the hub of the region. He said that we are coming up with many projects and that we are starting passenger ship from Karachi Port, Pakistan to Chahbahar Port, Iran, next month. Similarly, we are starting speedy boat service for the transportation of perishable items from Karachi to Gulf countries and that we are also in process of revising our tariff rates, the Minister added. He further informed the Shipping Association delegation that his ministry is working on initiating projects on prime locations of ports to stop from being encroached by land mafia on one hand and on the other to attract foreign investments for the construction of multipurpose projects through public private partnership.

With regards to the long pending “Carriage of goods by sea – Act – 1882” in his ministry, the Minister Kamran Michael informed the said delegation of shipping company owners that the changes will get incorporated in the Act soon. The matter will be taken to the Assembly and revision and updating the act is required to meet the modern days’ requirements.

The Minister Kamran Michael informed the delegation that the new deep water container port will get commissioned next year. For such development programmes, KPT is gradually recovering its encroached land and that so far 70 acres of land has been recovered. While pointing out towards the projection of marine environment of the coastline, the Minister stressed on having mangrove forests and in this regard he also pointed out to the delegates that plantation of 100,000 mangroves saplings will take place by KPT in a single month starting from 24th May 2014.

DATED: 15TH MAY 2014

PRESS RELEASE

CARGO HANDLING GAINED MOMENTUM AT KARACHI PORT TRUST

KPT HANDLED 34.097 MILLION TONNES CARGO DURING THE FIRST TEN MONTHS OF FINANCIAL YEAR 2013-14

The last ten months of current financial year, July ‘13 to April ’14, has remained very productive performance wise for the Karachi Port Trust. The port handled 5.90% more cargo during the first ten months of present financial year 2013 – 14 in comparison to the same period of the last financial year 2012-13. The TOTAL CARGO, comprising bulk, liquid bulk and general, handled by the port at the close of April, this financial year, was 34.097 million tonnes whereas it closed last financial year in April at 32.198 million tonnes.

The DRY CARGO handling of the port during the said ten months of financial year 2013 – 14 also recorded a gain of 5% to close in April at 23.382 million tonnes whereas it remained at 22.269 million tonnes in the corresponding period of last financial year. The LIQUID BULK CARGO has also shown improvements and recorded a gain of 7.92% during the ten months of financial year 2013 – 14 to close at 10.715 million tonnes in April 2014 whereas it was 9.929 million tonnes during the corresponding period of last year. Breakup of DRY CARGO shows that KPT has handled 6.72% more DRY GENERAL CARGO during the period this financial year to remain at 17.872 million tonnes at the close of April, whereas the port handled 16.747 million tonnes in the corresponding period last year.

A similar upward trend is seen in the CONTAINERS HANDLING at the port. The port handled 5.47% more CONTAINERS (quantified in Twenty Equivalent Units – TEU) this financial year at the close of April to remain at 1.325 million TEUs whereas it remained last year during the same corresponding period at 1.256 million TEUs.

The ship handling has also remained phenomenal as 1,380 vessels called at Karachi Port during the first ten months of financial year 2013 – 14, whereas during the same period last year the port handled the call of 1,322 vessels, showing a hefty improvement by 4.39%. This year port handled 689 container, 138 bulk cargo, 189 general cargo and 364 oil tanker ships during the ten months of financial year 2013 – 14 ending in April. During the same corresponding period last year, the port handled 648 container, 172 bulk cargo, 156 general cargo and 346 oil tanker ships. Major gain is seen in the handling of general cargo ships which increased by 21.15%.

The port, under the Chairmanship of KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed, is all set to achieve even higher milestones. It surely reflects on the friendly policies of government towards trade and commerce as well as the port and shipping sector. Hence, KPT sees a more vibrant future.

The Director General Rangers Sindh, Major General Rizwan Akhtar, called on Chairman KPT Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed at KPT Head Office today to discuss issues of mutual interest. The focus of the discussion primarily remained on overall security which is a burning issue these days in the wake of prevailing law and order situation. The security of KPT including surrounding areas also came under discussion.

The Chairman KPT shared with the DG Rangers about the role of the Port Security Force within the port. The DG Rangers Major General Rizwan Akhtar assured full support to the Karachi Port Trust administration to ensure law and order in area of interest.

23rd April 2014

PRESS RELEASE

Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed takes charge of Chairman KPT

Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed has taken charge as 31st Chairman of Karachi Port Trust today. Having a vast experience of Navy and marine operations, he is all set to steer the port to achieve goals and objectives assigned to him by the federal government. With a wealth of experience behind him, he will be able to deal with the affairs of Karachi Port Trust in a sound manner. He is well suited to strive and work to create new avenues and vistas for the port to unlock its true potentials. The top and most important one is perhaps the Pakistan Deep Water Container Port which will attain completion in his tenure as Chairman KPT.

Before joining KPT as Chairman, Vice Admiral Shafqat Jawed was working as Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff (Admin) at NHQ. He has served at various Command and Staff appointments including Commanding Officer PNS SHAHJAHAN, directing staff at PN War College, Director Naval Operations, Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Operations) at NHQ, Director Operations and Plans JSHQ, Commander Auxiliary and Marine Warfare Squadron, Mission Commander at China for F-22 P Project, Additional Secretary at Ministry of Defence, Flag Officer Sea Training and Deputy Chief of Naval Staff (Operations and Projects). His career started when he was commissioned in the operations branch of Pakistan Navy in June 1978. His professional course that he undertook during his illustrious career includes Naval Command Course (USA) and National Defence Course at NDU. In recognition of his meritorious services he was also awarded Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military).

The period of July ‘13 to March ‘14 remained very productive performance wise for the Karachi Port. The port handled 6.51% more cargo during the first nine months of financial year 2013 – 14 in comparison to the same period last financial year. The total cargo, comprising bulk and general, handled by the port at the close of March, this financial year, was 30.676 million tonnes whereas it closed last financial year in March at 28.802 million tonnes. The dry cargo handling of the port during the first nine months of financial year 2013 – 14 also recorded gain of 5.86% to close in March at 21.165 million tonnes whereas it remained at 19.994 million tonnes in the corresponding period last financial year. The liquid bulk cargo has also shown improvements and its handling even remained better than the dry cargo handling. The liquid bulk cargo recorded a gain of 7.98% during the first nine months of financial year 2013 – 14 to close at 9.511 million tonnes in March 2014 whereas it was 8.802 million tonnes during the corresponding period last year. Breakup of dry cargo shows that KPT has handled 7.41% more dry general cargo during the first nine month of this financial year to remain at 16.111 million tonnes at the close of March whereas the port handled 14.999 million tonnes in the corresponding period last year. A gain of 1.18% was also seen in the handling of dry bulk cargo which port handled this financial year till March which remained at 5.054 million tonnes whereas it was 4.995 million tonnes last financial during the same corresponding period.

A similar upward trend is seen in the containers handling of the port. The port handled 5.95% more containers (quantified in Twenty Equivalent Units – TEU) this financial year at the close of March to remain at 1.196 million TEU whereas it remained last year during the same corresponding period at 1.129 million TEU. Breakup shows that the port has handled more containers import than containers export this financial in comparison from the previous financial year during the same nine monthly periods. The container imports handling remained at 0.609 million TEU this financial year vis-à-vis last year when the port recorded handling of 0.572 million TEU at the end of March showing a gain of 6.49%. Similarly, the containers export handling remained at 0.587 million TEU during the first nine months of financial year 2013 – 14 whereas it closed at 0.557 million TEU during the corresponding period last year and hence showing an increase by 5.41%.

The ship handling has also remained phenomenal as 1,236 vessels called at Karachi Port during the first nine months of financial year 2013 – 14 whereas during the same period last year the port handled the call of 1,185 vessels, showing a hefty improvement by 4.3%. This year port handled 620 container, 129 bulk cargo, 165 general cargo and 322 oil tanker ships during the first nine month of financial year 2013 – 14 ending in March. During the same corresponding period last year, the port handled 582 container, 155 bulk cargo, 139 general cargo and 309 oil tanker ships. Major gain is seen in the handling of general cargo ships which increased by 18.71%.

The port is all set to break all previous milestones as it propels ahead with great initiative and drive which surely reflects on the friendly policies of government towards trade and commerce as well as the port and shipping sector. Hence, KPT sees a vibrant future.

The federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael met the World Bank officials and discussed the World Bank financed $ 115.8 million Karachi Port Improvement Project which has two components. The first component deals with the Reconstruction of Berths 15 – 17A and the other is to carry out Institutional Strengthening Studies. The Minister Kamran Michael was informed about the scope of studies conducted for the 10 years’ strategic business plan, improvements of environment health safety standards at the port and improvement of financial management systems of the port.

The Minister appreciated the efforts towards the midterm review of World Bank financed Karachi Port Improvement Project. He was apprised of the objectives of the Midterm review which the World Bank team is presently doing to assess progress on key components of the project, review the project’s operational aspects, and progress towards achieving the development objectives. The mission will focus on determining corrective actions needed for the project to achieve intended results and suggest any adjustments if so required based upon the discussion with Government counterparts and other stakeholders. The mission is also meeting port users to get their views and feedback. The Word Bank Port Economist Edward Liang, Consultant Yousuf Hussain, Disbursement Specialist Anwar Bhatti, Financial Management Specialist Naveed Saeeed and Port Specialist Hassan Afzal Zaidi were present in the meeting which was also attended by Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat and KPT’s planning and development division team.

The World Bank team, carrying out the midterm review of World Bank financed Karachi Port Improvement Project, visited Karachi Port for a meeting with the Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael and Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat in which the master plan of KPT was discussed. The World Bank team is presently going to assess progress on key components of the project, review the operational aspects and progress towards achieving the development objectives. The mission will focus on determining corrective actions needed for the project to achieve intended results and to suggest any adjustment if so required based upon the discussion with Government counterparts and other stakeholders. The mission is also meeting port users to get their feedback.

During the meeting the World Bank officials were informed by the Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat that through the World Bank loan of $115.8 million, KPT intends to reconstruct its berths 15 – 17A at east wharves of port’s existing channel along with hiring of consultants for the performing studies related to 10 Years Master Plan of KPT and regarding the Environment Improvement of Karachi Port. The Minister appreciated the handling of affairs on strong grounds by the World Bank team and assured them of all the support they desire from the port authority as well as the Ministry.

The Word Bank Port Economist Edward Liang, Consultant Yousuf Hussain, Disbursement Specialist Anwar Bhatti, Financial Management Specialist Naveed Saeeed and Port Specialist Hassan Afzal Zaidi were present in the meeting. The Port Specialist Hassan Afzal Zaidi led the delegation at Karachi Port. The team reviewed the progress made by KPT on reconstruction of berths which has reached approximately 62% physical progress and observed the quality of work to be satisfactory. The Minister Kamran Michael and Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat were asked to assure that the work progress is expedited to match the planned progress so that the contract is completed per schedule.

DATED: 4TH APRIL 2014

PRESS RELEASE

KPT LAUNCHED ENCROACHMENT DRIVE AT OIL INSTALLATION AREA

Karachi Port Trust launched encroachment drive at Keamari Oil Installation Area today for the removal illegal encroachments made by mafia. In the first phase the removal of illegal hotels, cabins and kiosks in the area has taken place.

Karachi Port Trust has increased the depths within the channel for handling 13 metres draught vessels at its berth through dredging from own resources. The dredging throughout the year has resulted in increasing depth of various berths. The depth at KICT was increased to 13 metres from 12.5 metres. Similarly, the depth at PICT berths was also increased to 13 metres. Moreover, the depth of OP-1 is also dredged to 13 metres. This has enabled the port to handle all the containerized cargo, coal and liquid cargo carriers of 13 metres draught and has eventually increased the potential of Karachi Port to handle more cargo.

Karachi Port has plans to increase the depths of OP-2 and 3 in the near future as well. It is projected that competition at these twin ports within Karachi Port limits will be immense when the new deep water seaport commissions adjacent to existing Karachi Port and that more avenues of trade and commercial activities through these ports will open up for clientele in years to come. Consequently, the port has envisaged plans to tap on potential markets to attract new port users/shipping lines. The timing of recent developments taken place is perfect for the port to sails towards mega achievements and success.

DATED: 16TH JANUARY 2014

PRESS RELEASE

ARFA KARIM DAY CELEBRATED BY KPT IN GREAT FERVOUR

HARBOUR CRUISE FOR STUDENTS INAUGURATED BY ARFA KARIM’S MOTHER

In pursuance to the second death anniversary of the youngest Microsoft expert and the Pakistani Icon Ms Arfa Karim, the KPT has organized harbour cruise for students along with Ms Samina Amjad – mother of Ms Arfa Karim, KPT management officials and media. Speaking on the occasion, Ms Samina Amjad highlighted on the goals set forth by the Arfa Karim Foundation. She said that her daughter Arfa Karim wanted to bring revolution in the field of education using ICT as tool, for imparting quality education to the under privileged students particularly in rural areas of Pakistan. This, she said was even shared by her daughter in international and national media interactions as her daughter has always dreamt big in her short life. She further said that Arfa Karim Foundation is striving hard to preserve her complete legacy and moving forward to persue her dreams and with this intention the 2nd Anniversary is celebrated to pay tribute to the “Daughter of the Nation” by lighting candles and organizing various activities to commence between 14th January and 2nd February 2014. As you are all aware of that Arfa Karim breadth her last on 14th January and her birthday were celebrated on 2nd February while her daughter was alive, she added.

Ms Samina Amjad appreciated the efforts of Karachi Port Trust management for coming forward with this harbour cruise on a passenger ferry boat which was named after her daughter which they have nicely decorated for this particular occasion. She said that it is an honour for her take boat ride in passenger ferry boat “FB-ARFA KARIM” today in the presence of media on whom her Foundation also depends for lifting up the cause of education for the under privileged class of the rural areas.

Later, the students also shared their aim and vision towards acquiring latest technology and some even shared to become computer experts like late Arfa Karim during the harbour cruise. One of the student in a very confident mood said that she want to become software specialist and would want to create software for export to other nations of the world which in turn will boost the exports of Pakistan as well and make the nation economically strong. The students showed lot of excitement to have the company of a great mother of nation’s daughter and thanked the KPT management for providing them an occasion to share their feelings towards the great daughter of Pakistan which concluded the proceedings.

DATED: 21ST NOVEMBER 2013

PRESS RELEASE

MINISTER FOR PORTS & SHIPPING SENATOR KAMRAN MICHAEL HIGHLIGHTED THAT FIBRE BOATS FOR FISHERMEN ON INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS BE IMPORTED

The Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael outlined to provided complete support and assistance to the fisheries and highlighted to import fibre boats from Holland which will have complete navigational systems which will guide and stop the fishermen from crossing sea boundaries of Pakistan. He was addressing at a World Fisheries Day seminar in a local hotel which was attended provincial minister for fisheries, Chief Minister Balochistan, Fisheries Cooperative Society, Karachi Fisheries, Korangi Fisheries and other stakeholders.

The Minister Kamran Michael stressed on the need for the uplift of fisheries sector. In this regard he said that he has taken up the matter of fish exports to US and EU markets which were banned at the time when he took up the charge and said that now the ban has been repealed and Pakistani fish products can gain access to these markets. He said that he invited authorities and training centres from Holland for the training of our fishermen in Gwadar area to become aware of the methodology of making quality catch. He further said that the fishermen remain in deep sea for many days even for a month and had to store fish on boats and sometimes their catch does not meet international standards which have to cater for. Infrastructure and accessories are made at Gwadar on international standards scale for the uplift of fish exports as Tuna, Tiger Prawns, Lobsters, etc have a very good market in European Union but they do not reach there due to falling short of standards. He said that the government will purchase the fish catch from fishermen at a reasonable cost for processing fish products for exports to various countries.

The Minister ensured the fisheries representatives that due support will be provided to fisheries sector. Mr. Kamran Michael also said that Pakistani fish was getting smuggled to Afghanistan from Khyber Pukhtoon Khwah which is being stopped while taking due measures and through implementation of new policies to foster strength to the fish exports of Pakistan. He said that a Marine Centre was established at Peshawar to keep check on proper exports. He spoke about the need to have good policies for betterment of fisheries sector of Pakistan and offered his support. He also welcomed the works of UNDP and WWF programmes in the area of fisheries.

The Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael was presented a souvenir of Sindhi Ajrak and Topi which concluded the proceedings.

Dated: 25-10-2013

Press Release

Journalists delegation from all over Pakistan called on Senator Kamran Micheal, Federal Minister for Ports & Shipping

A delegation comprising journalists from all over Pakistan called on Senator Kamran Michael. The delegation was taken for a cruise and briefing on Abul dredger of KPT where they also witness the ongoing dredging activities inside the port. The Minister was accompanied with Chairman KPT Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat on the occasion.

The Minister on the occasion briefed the journalists about operations of Karachi Port and how the port is maintained round the clock for vessels to arrive with cargo at the port. He said that we are working hard for creating better conditions so that we have more sea shipping links. Even the best performing ports need other ports to be successful, for example to develop hub-and-spoke operations, and avoid congestion. He stressed on that we want Pakistani ports to enjoy long-term success – so that they can deliver a better service to Pakistan's industry and Pakistan's economy.

The Minister Kamran Michael appreciated the role media is playing in the development and said that this unison will amalgamate into an environment which creates more opportunities as well as enable the nation to address issues like load shedding and energy crisis in his tenure of the ministry. He also appreciated Chairman KPT for making arrangements in such a speedy manner.

DATED 6TH NOVEMBER 2013

CARGO HANDLING OF KARACHI PORT GREW BY 11.77%

DURING THE FIRST FOUR MONTHS OF THIS FINANCIAL YEAR (JULY – OCT)

With the new government taking charge of the Ministry of Ports and Shipping, the overall efficiency at Karachi Port has gained momentum. The total cargo handled at Karachi Port during the period “July – October” of the financial year 2013-14 closed at 14.044 million tonnes whereas it was 12.565 million tonnes last year corresponding period and hence registered a comparative gain of 11.77%. The break up shows that the port handled 9.525 million tonnes of dry cargo and 4.492 million tonnes of liquid cargo during the first four month of ongoing financial year whereas these remained at 8.568 million tonnes and 3.997 million tonnes respectively in the corresponding period last year. The dry cargo has recorded a gain of 11.48% and similarly liquid cargo has also gained 12.38% which reflects on the cargo handling momentum at Karachi Port. The container handling at the port also showed improvements by handling 0.531 million TEUs during the first four months whereas it remained at 0.486 million TEUs during the same period last year hence registered an increase of 9.26%.

The efficiency in handling of dry cargo was mainly due to the dry bulk cargo which grew during the first four months by 19.22% with respect to a similar period last year. Last year the port handled 2.118 million tonnes whereas this financial year it closed at 2.525 million tonnes. Dry general cargo also followed the momentum and by the end of four month period, ending at 31st October 2013, the handling closed at 7.027 million tonnes whereas its comparison with the similar period last year shows that the port handled 6.45 million tonnes, hence showing an increase of 8.95%. Imports and exports breakup shows that the total dry cargo imports registered a gain of 16.28% by closing at the end of four monthly period of financial year 2013 at 6.494 million tonnes comparatively from last year when the port handled 5.585 million tonnes. Similarly, the total dry cargo exports handling also had shown an improvement in performance by 2.51% through handling of 3.058 million tonnes this year in comparison to last years’ figures of 2.983 million tonnes. Most of the handled consignments belong to the bulk cargo exports and imports where the port’s efficiency remained on the up. The port handled 25.35% more dry bulk exports during the last four month from corresponding period last year. Similarly, the port handled 28.19% more bulk cargo imports during the last four months of the financial year 2013 in comparison to the same period the previous year.

The first four months of this financial year saw the port handling 293 Container Ships, 73 Bulk Cargo Ships, 66 General Cargo Ships and 142 Oil Tankers whereas last year during the same period the port handled 263 Container Ships, 70 Bulk Cargo Ships, 57 General Cargo Ships and 136 Oil Tankers.

The credit goes to the friendly policies of the Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Kamran Michael and to the dynamic leadership of Chairman KPT, Rear Admiral Azhar Hayat, for supervising the efficient management and operational teams for raising standards of efficiency in Pakistan. It reflects on the positive business sentiments that exists and regulates a swift economic turnover. The port foresees a great cargo handling potential due to favourable government policies and due to its strategic location which will ultimately result in great success.

GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE

1. The Competent Authority has constituted a Committee comprising of following officers to scrutinize, examine and investigate the representations submitted by individuals in different cases against KPT and other miscellaneous grievances:

Ms. Shama Ehsan Khan General Manager (F) Convener

Mr. M. Hanif Abdullah General Manager (E) Member

Mr. Imam Bukhsh Ag. General Manager (CW) Member

2. The Committee will propose possible remedial measures for settlement / redressal of those grievances within the provisions of KPT rules and policies.

Senator Kamran Michael, Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping, visited Karachi Port Trust on Friday, 14th June 2013. Accompanied by Chairman, KPT and other high functionaries of the port the Federal Minister was given a detailed tour of the maritime installations of KPT along with all the ongoing development projects KPT is undertaking.

The Minister was taken round all operational berths of KPT including all the three oil piers. During the course of his inspection lasting three hours he also viewed the newly laid out breakwaters that will streamline the channels of Karachi Port. He visited the deepened length of the approach channel and the desirability of deeper access for berthing large post-panamax carriers was explained to him by Chairman.

He inspected the under construction Pakistan Deep Water Container Port and instructed KPT to bring all the issues related to delay caused in its completion so that action can be taken at the appropriate forum for their resolution. He also said that PDWCP will bring in much needed employment opportunities for the young workforce of Pakistan.

During the appraisal accorded to him of current state of operations of Karachi Port the Minister raised very pertinent queries and inquired in depth about various facets of the operational practices. He conveyed the vision of the government to the officers and asked to implement it transparently so that not only they perform efficiently but also that they become a role model for others to follow.

He also laid stress on the need to strategize the priorities of the Port so that they are effectively aligned with international maritime requirement. He impressed upon the fact that Karachi Port being the largest recipient of Pakistan’s national maritime trade is expected to perform the tasks assigned to it with diligence and devotion.

He listened to the issues raised by port workforce and issued on the spot orders for solving them. He also promised to look into the long term problems of the work force and assured their representatives that he will try utmost to find solution to them. He said that he will regularly visit Karachi Port and personally monitor all its activities. He further instructed the management to closely apprise him of all port activities so that he regularly issues appropriate instructions.

5th February 2013, Karachi: In pursuance to the emerging dispute between shipping companies and the transporters, a meeting was called by the Chairman KPT Mr. Jawed Hanif Khan at KPT Head Office which was attended by Pakistan Ship Agent Association members and transporters, apart from the operations team of Karachi Port Trust.

The purpose of the meeting was to resolve the dispute and the efforts of KPT led by Chairman KPT Mr. Jawed Hanif Khan paved way for it after long meeting which started during the late hours on 4th February 2013 and ended after 12 am. It was decided among the participants of the meeting that from 6th February 2013 Pakistan Ship Agent Association members will start collection of empty LO/LO charges at their offices and no cash transaction will be carried over by transporters at the terminals. With regards to the export empty LO/LO charges, it was discussed and demanded that LO/LO charges will be taken by the shipping companies at the time of issuance of Bill of Lading. The shipping agent representatives were of the opinion that they require proper authorization from their members and for this matter they opined with confidence that the matter can be resolved. Moreover, it was decided that the understanding reached here will be applicable on fresh import / export containers from 6th February 2013.

KPT welcomes the new calendar year with a scintillating fireworks display

31stDecember 2012, Karachi:Karachi Port Trust welcomed the new calendar year with a scintillating fireworks display at KPT Deep Water Container Port area at Keamari Groyne, exactly at 12am sharp. The citizens were invited to witness exuberant fireworks display over the lightening beauty of Port Fountain Jet along with Minister for Ports and Shipping Senator Babar Khan Ghauri and Chairman KPT Mr. Jawed Hanif Khan. A large number of people gathered at the location and appreciated the fireworks arranged by KPT, they said events like this must continue through out the year.

With a renewed vigour, KPT strives to achieve more milestones the port has beset for itself for years ahead under the dynamic and visionary leadership of government under the umbrella of Federal Ministry of Ports and Shipping. The port has remained vigilant over the years and is continuously moulding itself through acquisition of latest technologies. The transformation is in full swing as the port aspires to become the transhipment hub of the South Asian region.

KARACHI PORT FACILITATING 13 METERS DRAFT CARGO VESSELS

21st December 2012, Karachi: Karachi Port is pleased to announce that since November 2012, when it received its first 13 meter deep draft vessel, it has successfully handled 12 more deep draft vessels in the same draft depth range. Amongst the deep draft vessels visiting Karachi Port 9 carried coal, 2 general cargo and one Rock Phosphate.

The arrival of deep draft carriers has resulted in fair amount of reduction in business costs of shipping lines and port users and they feel better placed to opt for large sized vessels for shipment of their cargoes. KPT generated business revenue of more than Rupees Thirty million from the movement of these 12 vessels and it is estimated that maritime business also was recipient of sizeable financial returns.

During this exercise KPT ensured that loading/unloading of cargoes was undertaken round the clock to reduce turnover timing of these large vessels. Since assuming office Mr. Jawed Hanif Khan, Chairman, KPT has consistently strove to reduce turn around time as well as laying stress on dredging the channel deep to facilitate movement of modern state of the art large ships.

KPT is actively engaged in improving the infrastructure of Karachi Port and has undertaken many mega projects to realize its avowed goal.